What To Look For
There are a lot of qualities in an aero bike wheel to consider when determining what is the best racing wheel. To keep it as simple as possible, you should consider durability, weight, components such as hubs and skewers and, of course, the aerodynamic drag or lack of. You want a wheel that is able to withstand the road abuse one might have during a ride or race. A lot of aero wheels are using fewer spokes for less drag, but it can compromise wheel durability and lead to wheels becoming un-true or spokes breaking. The less weight you can find, but still keep stiffness and durability, the better. Your wheels are rotating and having lighter wheels means you go faster. Check the company's website and look for information on the drag in grams. This will not only help you find the best aerodynamic wheel, but it will also allow you to pick the right wheel for the type riding or racing you plan on doing. Some brands to look at are Hed, Zipp, Bontrager, and Mavic.
Common Pitfalls
Don't get caught up in the jargon you might find in aero wheel advertising. Consider what you are going to be using the wheel for. Most people who race are amateurs and need a wheel that will work in more than one specialty. For example, if you are a pro cyclist competing in a time trial, you might be able to get by with a deep dish rim and 12 spokes. But for the majority of us, it's better to have a 24-spoke wheel that we are going to use for multiple seasons.
Where To Buy
Check with your local bike shop or on the manufacturer's website for certified distributors. You can find aero wheels on line at Amazon.com or Jenson USA. It's best to purchase new wheels since most of them are made from carbon fiber and it's hard to know if the wheel has been compromised in any way.
Cost
Depending on brand and what type of rim and components the wheel has, you will spend anywhere between $500 to over $2,000 on a set of aero wheels. If you're looking for the best aero wheels, be prepared to pay a hefty price tag. It is not un-common for someone to spend $1,500 on a set of aero wheels.
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